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Fun Facts

Events

  • In 2008, Iowa City became the world’s third United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) City of Literature, following Edinburgh, Scotland and Melbourne, Australia
  • Stone for the Old Capitol was quarried 10 miles north of Iowa City and floated down the river on barges
  • The University of Iowa became the first public university to admit men and women on an equal basis
  • Fans paid $3 per ticket to see the dedication game October 19, 1929 against Illinois, held in the newly completed Kinnick Stadium
  • Coralville’s sculpture walk in the Iowa River Landing features 11 sculptures, all created by Iowa artists
  • The city sealed a full size time capsule for its 100th birthday in 2013, not to be opened again for another 100 years
  • North Liberty Community Library has a collection of 375+ cake pans it lends out in addition to books
  • 33.6% of the area’s population has completed a bachelors degree; 27.8% have completed a masters degree
  • Johnson County makes up 614 square miles
  • Over 9,000 people walk through the pedestrian mall daily
  • Notable University of Iowa Alumni include:
    • George Gallup, founder of the Gallup Poll, BA, 1923
    • Tennessee Williams, author of “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” BA, 1938
    • Gene Wilder, Comedic film and television actor whose credits include “Silver Streak,” “Young Frankenstein,” and “Stir Crazy” BA, 1955, Communication and Theatre Arts
    • James Van Allen, world-famous physicist and discoverer of two radiation belts (the Van Allen Belts) that surround the earth, Emeritus Carver Professor of Physics at the University of Iowa. MS, 1936; PhD, 1939, Physics
    • Sarai Sherman, a twentieth century modernist painter whose work is in major national and international collections including MoMA, the Whitney Museum of American Art; and the Hirshhorn Museum
    • John Irving, novelist who wrote The World According to GarpA Prayer for Owen Meany, and several others, MFA, 1967, English
    • Tom Brokaw, Mark Mattson and Ashton Kutcher also attended the University of Iowa
  • In 1923, Emma J. Harvat became mayor; she was the first woman to be elected as leader of a U.S. city with a population of over 10,000. Her election made history, and was covered in the news worldwide
  • Including the University Iowa student population, the median age is 24.8 years

INSANELY CURIOUS

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Delectable Eats

With options ranging from comfort food and traditional staples to unexpected combinations coupled with the freshness of local ingredients, your taste buds are sure to be quite pleased.

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FIND THINGS TO DO

If you haven’t been here lately, you’ll want to experience the eclectic, collegiate spirit of Iowa City and the University of Iowa combined with the shopping and recreational attractions there is adventure around every corner.

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FASHION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Shopping in Iowa City’s curious communities includes options from local sellers as well as large retailers. Find the perfect gift for someone special or a unique piece for your collection!

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Iowa City and its curious communities are full of events year-round. You’ll find events ranging from author readings and workshops to musical performances and athletic competitions.

Shop Think Iowa City

Your one stop shop for Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty area themed merchandise.

Order online at shopthinkiowacity.com. Ship to you or pick up at our visitors center.

Represent your community now with Shop Think Iowa City!

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Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

900 1st Ave. Hayden Fry Way Coralville, IA 52241

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